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Colombian ID

I will be here in Colombia for about 5-6 months. I am from the USA. Can I get a Colombian ID while I am here? And if so, what do I need to get one? I went to a local bank here, they told me to get a Colombian ID, and a letter from my employer in the USA stating that I am employed and how much I make, and then I can get a credit card from this bank. I would like to establish some credit here. Thanks in advance for any help!

By Outtahere on Dec 3, 2004, 08:32 in Friendly Talkzone.

rash9000 says on Dec 3, 2004, 09:33:

go to the DAS You can go to the DAS to get your ID there is one in every major city.
DAS stands for DEpartamento Administrativo de seguridad or something like that, I gues all you need is your passport

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Dan says on Dec 3, 2004, 14:09:

I would think that a Visa allowing you to work or live is neccessary. I don't think you can get one as a visiter/tourist.

God Bless America!

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Dec 3, 2004, 14:16:

as far as I know you cannot open a bank account in Colombia without having a Colombian id. That would be your cedula de extranjería and for that you'll need to have a resident visa/or something similar. So, you'll have to apply for a non-tourist visa in Colombia, and after that has been approved you get your cedula and your nit (número de identificación tributaria). When you have all these documents together you go to your bank and open an account, get your credit card whatever. If this has been changed recently please let me know,
cheers,
Desi

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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Hunter says on Dec 3, 2004, 15:29:

Bank account Desideria is correct and nothing has changed.

The bank is unlikely to give you much credit IF ANY without an income generated in Colombia that you can officialy prove.
They will give you a debit card though.

Outtahere, unless you are planning on spending a lot more time in Colombia, I wouldn't bother, it will probably cost you more money to sort out than any possible line of credit that you will get.

Hunter

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